Schools report calmer classrooms when distracting phone apps are blocked

Blocking distracting apps during the school day may be giving pupils more room to concentrate and talk to one another.

A Blackout Education report, covered by The Independent, draws on data from more than 5,000 pupils in English secondary schools. At one school, 75% of responding staff noticed better social interaction. Pupils described more football and conversation at lunchtime.

The practical choices are visible in Peacehaven Community School's policy: bring a smartphone with the blocking app, a basic phone, or no phone. Social media, games and cameras are restricted during school hours, while calls and texts remain available.

The assessment comes from the technology's supplier, and reported exam improvements do not prove the software caused them. Educational psychologist Sasha Hall cautions that many factors shape results, although reducing distractions can help learning.

That makes everyday changes worth watching alongside grades: fewer interruptions, more attention in lessons, and a lunch break where friends are easier to reach face to face.

Sources

• The Independent — supplier findings and independent expert caution
• Peacehaven Community School — how the policy works